In the early morning hours of Wednesday December 19, 2012 DeFuniak Police responded to a residential burglary in progress on North 12th Street. Upon arrival, the suspect described as a black male, fled from the residence on foot. The call originated when the home occupants heard the suspect attempting to gain entry into the residence through a side window and called police.
Officers conducted an extensive search of the area and were able to locate the suspect, later identified as Rodney Robinson, inside a nearby vacant home. Robinson attempted to flee from officers on foot. Officers were able to pursue and apprehend Robinson without incident.
While investigating the scene, officers located a backpack near the window where Robinson had attempted entry. The backpack was determined to belong to Robinson and contained items, including prescription pills, burglary tools, and narcotic paraphernalia/equipment. The prescription pills were determined to be stolen in another reported incident from the prior day.
“This is an example of citizens and police working together to take control of this criminal act. Good observations and sound police tactics allowed for the suspect to be arrested and evidence to be recovered” said Lieutenant Tilman Mears. DeFuniak Springs Police Detectives will continue to explore possibilities that this suspect may be tied to other recent burglaries in the area.
City Marshal, Chief Mark A. Weeks, MS, again wants to remind citizens that if they have any information on any recent burglaries in the DeFuniak Springs area, please contact us at (850)893-8513 or our anonymous tip line at (850)910-TIPS (8477).
Lieutenant Tilman Mears
Criminal Investigations Division Commander
mearstf@defuniakspringspolice.net